Bürgerspital - Würzburger Rieslaner - Spätlese 2020
In Franken, Germany, the Bürgerspital zum Heiligen Geist is the most historic and prestigious wine producer in the region. Originally a municipal foundation bequeathed to Würzburg by a private citizen in 1316, the estate has over 700 years of history, plus the world's oldest bottle of white wine (from vintage 1540!). In addition to being a world class wine estate, the Bürgerspital is also provides medical and geriatric care to local residents. A founding member of the VDP (Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter, Germany's most prestigious association of producers), Bürgerspital is produces benchmark examples of Franken Silvaner, Riesling and Rieslaner.
The Bürgerspital Würzbuger Rieslaner Spätlese is made from 100% Rieslaner (a late ripening cross of Riesling and Silvaner) grown on Muschelkalk soils. Fermented with native yeasts in stainless steel tanks, the wine shows a brilliant medium gold color with enticing aromas of mandarin orange, fresh apricot and currant. The palate is sweet, though the sugar is balanced nicely by a lively acidity that keeps the wine refreshing and complex. Enjoy on its own, either before or after a meal, with spicy dishes or fruit-based desserts.
